Foreseeable: Galaxy Fold Launch Delayed Indefinitely

In the midst of screen-breaks, Samsung has delayed the Galaxy Fold launch events in China which were scheduled for April 23 and 24. The delay is indefinite and a new release date will be announced “in the coming weeks.”

According to The Wall Street Journal, the Galaxy Fold launch has been delayed at least for a month. The foldable smartphone won’t hit the shelves until sometime in May.

Galaxy Fold faced a lot of criticism after a number of review units broke within 48 hours of use. Tech reviewers from renowned media outlets like The Verge reported issues like screen flickering, bulges under the display, and display distortion.

“The Fold catastrophically failed after just a day or two of normal use.”

The Verge even subtitled the Galaxy Fold review as “Broken Dream“ and said that the flaws were “distressing”. However, a Samsung spokesperson assured that the company would “thoroughly inspect” the units.

Samsung obviously doesn’t want to associate these delays with the broken units, but given the timing, it would like to buy more time to address these issues before the next wave of shipments, according to Engadget.

The handset maker said it will implement measures to improve the display durability of its folding phone and ensure that the customers are fully aware of the protective layer on top of the main display.

Samsung’s full statement can be found below:

“We recently unveiled a completely new mobile category: a smartphone using multiple new technologies and materials to create a display that is flexible enough to fold. We are encouraged by the excitement around the Galaxy Fold.

While many reviewers shared with us the vast potential they see, some also showed us how the device needs further improvements that could ensure the best possible user experience.

To fully evaluate this feedback and run further internal tests, we have decided to delay the release of the Galaxy Fold. We plan to announce the release date in the coming weeks.

Initial findings from the inspection of reported issues on the display showed that they could be associated with impact on the top and bottom exposed areas of the hinge. There was also an instance where substances found inside the device affected the display performance.

We will take measures to strengthen the display protection. We will also enhance the guidance on care and use of the display including the protective layer so that our customers get the most out of their Galaxy Fold.

We value the trust our customers place in us and they are always our top priority. Samsung is committed to working closely with customers and partners to move the industry forward. We want to thank them for their patience and understanding.” via – AndroidAuthority

Also, Samsung has decided to retrieve all review units as it investigates the defects, according to Reuters.

We hope Samsung takes all the time needed to address the issues and the consumers don’t receive a broken folding phone. After all, what’s the point of being the first at something if you can’t make it work?